Question:

How transition metals makes our life happy.

Introduction:
The transition elements are those which as elements or as cations have partially filled (n-1) d-or
(n-2) f -orbitals. All of them are metals and are characterized by electrons being added to (n-1)
d- or (n-2) /-orbitals, where ‘n’ stands for principal energy levels. In simple words, those
elements which as atoms or cations have partially filled d or f orbitals in the penultimate shells
are called transition elements. The elements in which atoms or cations have partially filled d
orbitals are called main transition (also called "d block") elements or d-transition elements. d
transition elements are located between Groups IIA (2) and IIIA (13) in the periodic table.
Partially filled f orbitals are characteristic of atoms and cations of the inner transition ("f-
block") elements on metal.

Properties:

Variable Oxidation States: Transition metals can exhibit multiple oxidation states due to the
availability of both s and d orbitals in their electron configuration Electronic configuration:
Transition metals have incomplete d-orbitals in their valence electron shell. This allows them to
easily lose or gain electrons, leading to different oxidation states. The electrons in the d-orbitals
can be readily promoted to higher energy levels or removed to achieve stability.

Exchange of electrons: Transition metals often participate in redox reactions, where they can
either lose electrons (becoming cations with a positive charge) or gain electrons (forming
anions or lower oxidation states). The flexibility in gaining or losing electrons allows them to
exhibit various oxidation states.

Coordination chemistry: Transition metals can form coordination complexes with ligands. These
complexes involve the interaction of the metal center with multiple surrounding atoms or
molecules, allowing for a range of electron transfer processes and oxidation states within the
complex.

Ligand influence: The choice of ligands in coordination complexes can also influence the
oxidation state of the transition metal. Different ligands can stabilize specific oxidation states,
affecting the overall reactivity of the metal center.
Outer electron configuration: The variable oxidation states of transition metals often arise from
the filling and unfilling of the d-orbitals, which are close in energy. Depending on the specific
electron configuration and the number of electrons in the d-orbitals, different oxidation states
can be achieved .Examples of transition metals with variable valency include iron (Fe), which
can exist in both Fe(II) and Fe(III) oxidation states, and copper (Cu), which can exist as Cu(I) and
Cu(II). The ability to switch between these oxidation states makes transition metals versatile in
catalysis and a wide range of chemical reactions. This property allows them to form a wide
range of compounds with different ions.

Color: Many transition metal compounds are brightly colored due to the d-d electronic
transitions. These colors can be used in pigments and dyes.

Paramagnetism: Transition metals often contain unpaired electrons, making them

paramagnetic, which means they are attracted to a magnetic field. This property is important in
applications like MRI machines.

Catalytic Activity: Transition metals are known for their catalytic activity. They can accelerate
chemical reactions without being consumed in the process. This property is crucial in various
industrial processes. D-orbital electrons: Transition metals have partially filled d-orbitals, which
can accept and donate electrons during chemical reactions. This property enables them to form
intermediate complexes with reactants and stabilize reaction intermediates.

Surface area: Many transition metals have high surface areas, making them suitable as catalysts
in heterogeneous catalysis, where the reactants are in different phases (e.g., gas and solid).

Coordination chemistry: Transition metals form stable coordination complexes with ligands.
These complexes often have active sites that can interact with reactant molecules, facilitating
catalytic reactions.

Electronegativity: Transition metals are less electronegative than nonmetals, which allows them
to bond with a variety of elements, making them versatile in catalyzing different types of
reactions. Examples of catalytic activities of transition metals include the use of platinum (Pt) in
catalytic converters to reduce automobile emissions, the use of iron (Fe) in the Haber-Bosch
process for ammonia production, and the use of nickel (Ni) in hydrogenation reactions. Their
ability to catalyze a wide range of reactions is a crucial aspect of transition elements in various
industrial and biological processes
High Melting and Boiling Points: Transition metals generally have high melting and boiling
points Strong metallic bonding: Transition metals are characterized by a strong metallic bond,
which is a result of the delocalized electrons in the d-orbitals of the metal atoms. These
electrons can move freely throughout the crystal lattice, forming a "sea of electrons" that holds
the metal ions together. This strong metallic bonding requires a significant amount of energy to
break the attractive forces, resulting in high melting and boiling points.

High atomic and ionic charge: Many transition metals have a high atomic number and a high
charge density. This means there is a strong electrostatic attraction between the positively
charged metal ions and the negatively charged electrons. This strong attraction makes it more
difficult to separate the metal ions, contributing to the high melting and boiling points.

Partially filled d-orbitals: The partially filled d-orbitals of transition metals contribute to the
stability of the metal lattice. These electrons provide added electronic density in the metallic
structure, further enhancing the strength of the metallic bond.

Lattice structure: The crystalline lattice structures of transition metals are often densely packed
and highly ordered, which further strengthens the interatomic forces. This results in a high
energy requirement to disrupt the crystal lattice and transition from the solid to liquid phase
(melting) or from the liquid to gas phase (boiling).

Transition metals often form alloys: Transition metals are frequently used in alloy formation,
where they are combined with other elements. These alloys can have even higher melting
points than pure metals due to the complex interactions between the different elements in the
alloy .Overall, the combination of strong metallic bonding, high charge density, and the unique
electronic structure of transition metals leads to their high melting and boiling points, making
them suitable for applications in high-temperature environments, such as in the aerospace and
metallurgy industries., making them suitable for high-temperature applications, such as in the
aerospace and manufacturing Formation of Complex Ions: Transition metals readily form
complex ions by coordinating with other molecules or ions.

Transition elements makes our life happy because of wide range of their uses due their unique
properties in medical and other fields of life.

Role of transition metals in human body

Transport of Oxygen: Iron (Fe), a transition element, is a crucial component of hemoglobin

in red blood cells, responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the
body. Enzyme Catalysis: Many transition metals, such as copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn), serve as
cofactors for enzymes that are involved in various metabolic reactions. For example, zinc is
essential for the activity of over 300 enzymes.

Electron Transport: Transition metals like copper and iron are integral to the electron
transport chain, which is vital for cellular respiration and energy production.

Detoxification: Enzymes containing transition metals, like glutathione peroxidase (containing

selenium), protect cells from oxidative damage and aid in the detoxification of harmful
substances.

Tissue Bone and Connective Formation : Manganese (Mn) contributes to the creation of
bones and connective tissues by participating in the synthesis of collagen.

Wound Healing: Copper is essential for the formation of connective tissues in wound
healing. Here are some ways in which copper is essential for wound healing:

Collagen Formation: Copper is a cofactor for the enzyme lysyl oxidase, which is essential for the
cross-linking of collagen and elastin fibers. Collagen is a structural protein that provides the
framework for wound repair.

Angiogenesis: Copper is involved in the formation of new blood vessels, a process known as
angiogenesis. Adequate blood supply is crucial for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the
wound site, facilitating the healing process.

Antimicrobial Properties: Copper exhibits antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent
infection at the wound site. Copper ions have been shown to inhibit the growth of various
microorganisms.

Inflammation Regulation: Copper plays a role in the regulation of inflammation, helping to

balance the pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory responses during wound healing. This aids
in controlling excessive inflammation and promoting tissue repair.

Fibroblast Activity: Copper is involved in the activation and proliferation of fibroblasts, which
are responsible for producing collagen and other extracellular matrix components necessary for
tissue repair.
Free Radical Scavenging: Copper-containing enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase, help
neutralize harmful free radicals produced during the inflammatory response. This protects the
wound from oxidative damage.

Skin Pigmentation: Copper also plays a role in melanin production, which can influence skin
pigmentation and the appearance of scars and healed wounds.

It's important to note that while copper is essential for wound healing, an excess of coppe

Neurotransmission: Manganese plays a role in the regulation of neurotransmitters in the

nervous system. Manganese's primary role in the body is related to enzyme activation and
cofactor functions, and it is essential for the proper functioning of many enzymes, including
those involved in energy metabolism and antioxidant defense.

While manganese itself is not a neurotransmitter and does not directly participate in the
release or reception of neurotransmitters, disturbances in manganese levels in the brain can
have neurological effects. Excessive manganese exposure, such as through occupational
exposure or environmental contamination, can lead to a condition known as manganism, which
shares some symptoms with Parkinson's disease and can affect neurotransmission
and motor function.

Thyroid Function: Iodine, often considered a transition element, is necessary for the
production of thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism.

These are just a few examples of how transition elements are involved in various physiological
processes in the human body. Their ability to adopt multiple oxidation states and form complex
compounds makes them adaptable and indispensable in biological systems.

Some other key application incude:

Catalysts: Transition metals are often used as catalysts in chemical reactions. For example,
platinum and palladium are used in catalytic converters to reduce harmful emanations from
vehicles.

Alloys: Many transition metals are used to create alloys with desirable properties. For instance,
steel is an alloy of iron and other transition metals, which is indispensable in construction and
manufacturing.
Electrical Conductors: Transition metals like copper and silver are excellent electrical
conductors and are used in wiring and electrical components.

Magnetic Materials: Some transition metals, such as iron, cobalt, and nickel, are used in the
production of magnets and magnetic materials.

Corrosion Resistance: Chromium is used to create stainless steel, which is highly impervious to
corrosion and used in a wide range of applications, from kitchen utensils to medical
instruments. Technology: Transition metals like copper (Cu), silver (Ag), and gold (Au) are used
in electronics and electrical wiring, contributing to the devices and technology that enhance our
lives.

Color and Art: Transition metal compounds are responsible for vibrant colors in pigments and
dyes, making art and design more visually appealing.

Energy: Transition metals are used in batteries and fuel cells, enabling the storage and efficient
utilization of energy.

Jewelry and Decoration: Prized metals like gold (Au) and silver (Ag) are used in jewelry and
embellished items, adding beauty and value to our lives.

Cookware: Stainless steel, which contains chromium (Cr) and nickel (Ni), is widely used in
cookware for its sturdiness and resistance to corrosion.

Transportation: Transition metals are used in the edifice of vehicles, contributing to the
convenience and efficiency of modern transportation systems.

In summary, transition elements have a profound impact on various phases of our lives, from
health and technology to art and everyday conveniences, enhancing our overall well-
being and happiness.